Choosing a dildo: size, diameter, base, and maintenance at a glance
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by Verpakkingdeals.nl
5 min reading time
A practical dildo buyer's guide: how to assess size and diameter, why the base is important, and how to match material, lube, and care.
Of all the questions that come in about this product group, two keep recurring: which size is sensible, and how do you keep such a product clean. Appearance and color are what you see in the photo; size, diameter, and material are what you're stuck with after ordering. Below, we'll go through these points, with examples from our own assortment so you can immediately see how the differences play out.
Length in the title is not the same as usable length
Almost every model has a length measurement in the product title. That measurement is the total length of the product, including the base, stand, or suction cup. What is actually usable is always less than that. In practice, assume that a portion of the length doesn't count, and therefore choose a size smaller than you might initially consider.
Length is the most noticeable measurement, but diameter is the measurement that determines whether something fits comfortably. A difference of half a centimeter in diameter is immediately felt; four extra centimeters in length often barely. Where the diameter is in the title, that's the first number to look at. For example, the Double Dildo Rocket Dong Black (€ 14.99) lists 20.4 x 3 cm: 3 cm is the diameter.
If the diameter isn't in the title, look at the product photo in proportion to the stated length, or ask the question by email. Guessing based on a photo alone is the most common mistake in this category.
Suction cup, flat base, or neither
The base of a model determines how you use it. A suction cup allows for hands-free use on a smooth surface and provides a firm grip. The Potos Realistic Dildo 21 cm with suction cup (€ 29.95) is an example of this.
For anal use, a stricter requirement applies: a clearly widened base or flange that is wider than the rest of the product. Models explicitly designed for this, such as the Anal Dildo Plug Black 17 cm (€ 9.95) and the Glass Plug Clear (€ 19.95), are designed for it. Models without a widened base are not, no matter how small they are.
Material: hard or flexible, and what that means for cleaning
Broadly speaking, the models fall into two groups. Flexible models yield, feel warmer, and are lighter. Hard glass models do not yield, are heavier, and have a smooth surface that is easy to rinse clean. In our assortment, you'll find in the second group, for example, the Glass Dildo Black 17 cm (€ 19.95), the Glass Dildo Transparent 20 cm (€ 19.95) and the Glass Dildo Clear with Blue Stripe (€ 19.95).
The exact material of a specific model is listed on the product page. Always rely on that rather than the photo: smooth, shiny surfaces look very similar in pictures. With glass, there's one extra habit: check the product for damage or chipped edges before use, and stop using it if you see any.
Lubricant: pay attention to the combination
Water-based lubricant is the standard choice that works with almost all materials — including glass. With silicone-based lubricant, it doesn't always go well with every silicone surface; manufacturers generally advise against this combination because the surface can become dull or sticky. If you're in doubt, water-based is the risk-free choice. With a new product, you can optionally test it on a small area at the bottom first. Our full range is in the Lubricant collection.
Cleaning and storage
Rinsing immediately after use with lukewarm water and a mild, unscented soap or a special toy cleaner is the basic method. Then let it dry completely before storing anything — moisture in a closed box or bag is the main reason products start to smell. For models with a seam, ridge, or suction cup, pay extra attention to those edges, as residue tends to linger there the longest.
Store products separately, not stacked in the same drawer. Different materials can react to each other with prolonged contact.
Store at room temperature and out of direct sunlight.
Do not use aggressive cleaning agents, alcohol, or dish soap with strong degreasers, unless explicitly permitted by the manufacturer.
Store glass separately so it doesn't bump against harder objects.
Ready-to-use cleaners can be found in the Toycleaners collection.
In summary: choose a size smaller than you initially think, look at the diameter before the length, check if the base matches how you want to use the product, and make sure your lubricant and material are compatible. Finally, read the product page for material specifications and dimensions — this information varies per model and we adopt it from the supplier.
The full range is available in the Dildo, Lubricant and Toycleaners collections. Shipping is done in a neutral box without mention of the contents. If you can't figure out which size or model suits your needs, send an email to info@verpakkingdeals.nl — please include the product number or link so we can respond specifically.
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